Bunclody Community College was delighted to welcome prospective students and their families to our Open Evening on Thursday, 10 September 2026. The school was buzzing with activity throughout the evening as visitors explored our facilities, met teachers and students, and experienced first-hand the wide range of opportunities available at BCC.
From the moment families arrived, there was something to see, try and discover. Our subject departments had prepared a fantastic range of interactive activities designed to give visitors a real flavour of life in Bunclody Community College.
In the History Room, budding archaeologists had the opportunity to excavate chocolate chip cookies using archaeological techniques, carefully recovering chocolate chips without destroying their "site". Visitors could also put their detective skills to the test by identifying real historical coins from replica coins, among other activities.
The Business Department challenged visitors with a "Spot the Brand" taste test, while the Science Department had a wide variety of interactive experiments taking place throughout the evening. The corridors were filled with live music, adding to the vibrant atmosphere as visitors moved around the school.
There was plenty of opportunity for creativity too. The Art Department showcased a range of activities and student work, while the Home Economics Department demonstrated the practical skills developed by students through baking and sewing activities. In the PE Department, visitors could get active and experience some of the facilities and activities taking place in the school gym.
These were just some of the many activities on offer, with departments throughout the school showcasing their subjects, facilities, projects and achievements. Visitors also had the opportunity to see the outstanding work produced by our students in the practical subjects, including a selection of award-winning projects.
The evening also provided an opportunity for parents to hear about the wider educational experience at Bunclody Community College. Principal Dr. James Trimble, addressed parents on two occasions, outlining the school's commitment to providing a high-quality, inclusive education while supporting students to reach their full potential.
An especially valuable part of the evening was hearing directly from some of our former students, who spoke about their experiences at BCC and how the education, encouragement and opportunities they received at the school helped them to thrive when they progressed to university.
Their experiences provided a powerful reminder of the journey that begins when students join our school community and the many pathways that can open up for them after leaving BCC.
Throughout the entire evening, parents and children were guided around the school by volunteer students, who were informative, polite and courteous in their endeavours. They were a credit to the school and their families. BCC is very proud of all the students who represented the school on the night.
We would like to thank all of the students, staff and families who contributed to making the evening such a success. The enthusiasm, creativity and commitment on display throughout the school reflected the vibrant learning community that exists at Bunclody Community College, and the dedication and commitment of the staff.
Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make Open Evening 2026 such a memorable evening. We look forward to welcoming many of our prospective students to BCC in the future